Pat Tobin
Founder, National Black Public Relations Society
A “Dash” of Brilliance

Marketing communications professionals gathered June 27 in Los Angeles for a fond farewell to Pat Tobin (1943 - 2008), business leader, community relations advocate and founder of the National Black Public Relations Society (NBPRS).

Pat expired June 10 after a valiant battle with cancer; she was 65.

A timeless spirit and tireless in her contributions, she seemed much younger than her chronological age. Pat was one of those souls who connected with everyone. We often shared professional stories and a passion for our young men (her grandson, Aaron Curry and my son, Clinton Jackson), trading photos and stories about ice hockey and baseball practices.

Known for her work on the Toyota account, among others, understand as American companies lost market share, Tobin & Associates work was and is responsible for the growth of that Japanese company’s market share among ethnic consumers. Pat’s daughter Lauren will continue that tradition, as community relations spokesperson—that’s a wonderful legacy Pat can be proud of!

In the world of PR it pays to know who has influence … who can make the connections … who has a pulse on the community.

The consulting world has always included a veil of mystique. By carefully examining the life of Pat Tobin, people are in a better position to understand the driving force of professional excellence.

At a tribute hosted by the Black Public Relations Society of New York, organization founder Teresa Lyles Homes said, "Make sure, as Pat did that the 'dash' means something as you live your life."

Pat will be missed, but the brilliance of her smile and contributions lives on in all who knew her. Memorial donations may be made to the Pat Tobin Scholarship Fund or Pat Tobin Memorial Fund, 4929 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 245, Los Angeles, CA 90010.